Project FROG can celebrate the start of its first zero-net energy solution built in a cold climate. They broke ground on the Center for Science and Global Citizenship at the Watkinson School in Hartford, Conn. late last month. The school was founded in 1881 and serves 285 students from more than 40 Connecticut towns in grades six through twelve.

The 4,000-sq.-ft. science center will feature a 75 percent energy-demand reduction, abundant natural light and glare control, superior air quality and microclimate customization among other unique capabilities. "The Center for Science and Global Citizenship represents an important step in our efforts to challenge the traditional orthodoxy of how a building comes together, the role it can play in teaching about sustainability and the curriculum material at hand," says John Bracker, Watkinson's head of school.

The center will generate more energy within its footprint than is required to operate its systems. Every aspect of it will be used as a teaching tool, such as the living roof, photovoltaic panels and advanced sensors. "Just imagine what's possible when a building is as smart and dynamic as the students and faculty who live in it," states Bracker.

The building will have three classrooms, all adaptable to lecture, seminars, and lab-style instruction.

"We're very excited that New England's first Project FROG solution is for such a prescient and dynamic academic partner," says Mark Miller, AIA, LEED AP, founder and CEO of Project FROG. "Having tackled energy performance in a range of tropical and western U.S. climates, we are pleased to demonstrate Project FROG's versatility and performance in the cold and snow as well as the heat and humidity of this region."